"They were the Beechers, a special breed that would hold a unique place in America." At the helm of this renowned clan was Lyman Beecher, the "most celebrated preacher in America," but it was his daughter, Harriet Beecher Stowe, who rewrote history--and did so at a time when women were not expected to have a life outside the four walls of their husband's or father's home.

This earnest group biography is leavened with humor and provides revealing glimpses into the Beecher mind-set and psyche. Admirably, the book doesn't shy away from the problems that plagued this famous family: It was said that all the Beechers suffered from nervous conditions. Many of them, including Harriet, were self-labeled "hypos," or hypochondriacs (at the time, the term was applied to people suffering from depression).

But it is Beecher Stowe's quest to end slavery--and to make a name for herself--that is at the heart of this biography. The story of how she came to write her classic novel, and in the process find herself, transcends time. Beecher Stowe's passionate wish to end slavery culminated in the nation's first protest novel. As part of her newfound role as social activist, Beecher Stowe took her message to Europe and met with President Lincoln. Not bad for someone expected to be a spinster or, at best, a wife!

Ina Chang's A Separate Battle looks at the lives of several women who played key roles in the Civil War.